Research led by Dr. Wellmann is evaluating the effects of Bovacillus™, a probiotic formulated to enhance rumen function by improving fiber digestion, on the performance of beef cows and their calves. Although probiotic supplementation has shown promise in controlled settings, its application and effectiveness in grazing beef cattle systems have been limited, highlighting the need for this research.
Because nutrient requirements are greatest during the last trimester of pregnancy and lactation, the probiotic was administered during this critical period. Dr. Wellmann and her doctoral student, Bradley Franke, are assessing cow performance through measures including body weight and condition, milk production and composition, fecal composition, circulating metabolites, and calf growth.
This research will improve understanding of the role and importance of probiotic supplementation in beef production. Funding for the project was provided by Novonesis.
